The Synergist to the Agonist | The Man and The Woman

The Man vs. The Woman.

This ongoing conflict often revolves around gender roles—both on a personal (familial) and cultural (political) level. At the heart of it, both men and women are seeking to be esteemed, acknowledged, appreciated, and truly seen by each other.

Over the last several decades—and even more so in recent years—this "war" between men and women has become more visible. Social media networks, podcasts, music, television, movies, books, and even some governmental policies often push negative narratives that drive division between the sexes.

On the other hand, some digital platforms and spaces highlight authentic conversations, realistic views, and genuine efforts to bridge the gap between men and women. However, these perspectives and voices rarely go as viral as conflict "typically" dominates communication networks and spaces.

Whether in family, romance, work, friendships, acquaintances, or at an associate level, there is a necessary connection needed between men and women: a synergistic and agonistic flow.

The Synergist to the Agonist

The human body provides a powerful metaphor for understanding the importance of collectiveness. A body functions only when its parts work together. Every muscle, organ, and system contributes to the body's overall functioning.

In anatomy, the relationship between synergist and agonist muscles is crucial for movement in the body. The agonist (or prime mover) is the muscle group that creates the primary force for a specific movement, while the synergist is the muscle that assists and supports the agonist, helping to make the movement more fluid, powerful, and stable. One cannot function effectively without the other.

The same can be said of men and women. At times, a man may serve as the agonist and a woman the synergist—or vice versa. The point is not about rigid roles, but about recognizing the necessity of moving together.

It requires a willingness to value and understand each other's roles as essential parts of the whole.

Movement and Change

Times are changing, and so are gender roles. Women, in particular, have increased their impact across various fields, including politics, education, business, entertainment, healthcare, and other influential spheres.

This shift doesn't erase the importance of men—it simply reveals the ongoing need for balance and mutual respect. Whether on the personal (family) level or the broader cultural stage, the relationship between men and women remains fundamental and needed.

This is not a shallow call for a utopian society for me and women -- because that's just never going to happen -- but a simple acknowledgment: both men and women are needed.

Despite being contradictory and a subject of fiction for many, even the most widely sold religious text implies that woman was an anatomical part made from man.

Nothing is new under the sun. The synergist will always need the agonist. The man will always need the woman and vice versa!